Infant Dentistry at Maplewood Family Dental
Starting dental care early is one of the best gifts you can give your baby. At Maplewood Family Dental in Knightdale, NC, we understand that caring for your infant’s oral health lays the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Our infant dentistry services are designed to support parents through those crucial early months and years, providing expert guidance, gentle care, and reassurance every step of the way.
What Is Infant Dentistry?
Infant dentistry focuses on the oral health needs of babies from birth through their toddler years. This specialized area of care addresses early dental development, preventive measures, and parent education. Many parents are surprised to learn that dental care should begin even before the first tooth appears. By establishing a relationship with a dentist early, you can ensure your child’s teeth and gums develop properly and that potential issues are caught and addressed promptly.
When Should My Baby See the Dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children have their first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth erupting, whichever comes first. This early visit allows the dentist to examine your baby’s mouth, check for any developmental concerns, and provide you with valuable information about caring for those precious new teeth.
Even if your baby doesn’t have teeth yet, an infant dentistry appointment is still beneficial. We can assess the health of your baby’s gums, discuss teething, and answer any questions you may have about oral care during infancy.
What to Expect During an Infant Dentistry Visit
Infant dentistry visits are designed to be gentle, quick, and stress-free for both baby and parent. During the appointment, we will:
- Examine your baby’s mouth, gums, and any emerging teeth
- Check for signs of early childhood cavities or other concerns
- Discuss teething symptoms and how to manage discomfort
- Demonstrate proper cleaning techniques for your baby’s gums and teeth
- Provide guidance on nutrition, pacifier use, and thumb-sucking
- Answer any questions you have about your baby’s oral development
Most infant dentistry appointments are very brief, and the focus is on education and prevention rather than treatment. Our goal is to help you feel confident and equipped to care for your baby’s dental health at home.
Why Infant Dentistry Matters
You might wonder if infant dentistry is really necessary when your baby has only a few teeth or none at all. The answer is yes. Here’s why:
- Prevent Early Childhood Cavities: Baby teeth are vulnerable to decay, and cavities can develop as soon as teeth appear. Early visits help prevent problems before they start.
- Monitor Development: A dentist can identify developmental issues early, such as tongue tie, improper bite alignment, or delayed tooth eruption.
- Establish Good Habits: Starting dental visits early helps your child become comfortable with the dentist and builds positive associations with oral care.
- Parental Guidance: Infant dentistry visits give parents the knowledge they need to care for their baby’s teeth, from proper brushing techniques to dietary recommendations.
Tips for Caring for Your Baby's Teeth at Home
Between visits, there are simple steps you can take to protect your baby’s oral health:
- Clean your baby’s gums with a soft, damp cloth after feedings, even before teeth appear.
- Once the first tooth erupts, brush it gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a rice-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.
- Avoid putting your baby to bed with a bottle of milk, formula, or juice, as this can lead to tooth decay.
- Limit sugary foods and drinks, and encourage water between feedings.
- Schedule regular dental checkups to monitor your baby’s oral development
Frequently Asked Questions About Infant Dentistry
Is it safe to use fluoride toothpaste on my baby?
Yes. A tiny, rice-sized smear of fluoride toothpaste is safe and effective for infants once their first tooth appears. Fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities.
What should I do if my baby is teething?
Teething can cause discomfort, drooling, and irritability. You can soothe your baby by gently massaging their gums with a clean finger or offering a chilled teething ring. Avoid teething gels that contain benzocaine, as they can be unsafe for infants.
Can babies get cavities?
Yes. Baby bottle tooth decay is a common problem caused by prolonged exposure to sugary liquids. This is why it’s important to avoid putting your baby to bed with a bottle and to clean their teeth and gums regularly.
What if my baby cries during the appointment?
It’s completely normal for babies to fuss during their first few visits. Our team is experienced in working with infants and will do everything possible to keep your baby calm and comfortable.
Schedule Your Baby’s First Dental Visit
At Maplewood Family Dental, we’re here to support you and your baby through every stage of early dental development. Our infant dentistry services provide the care, education, and reassurance you need to ensure your child’s smile gets off to a healthy start. Contact us today to schedule your baby’s first appointment. We look forward to being part of your family’s dental care journey.
